9 Challenges Facing Gifted Children (and How You Can Help!)

by Erin Dower

Has your gifted child been struggling with some social, emotional, or academic issues lately? Giftedness comes with a surprising set of problems, ranging from perfectionism and competitiveness to friendship issues. Learn about these common challenges and some steps you can take to manage them and help your child thrive.

Self-Esteem Issues

Being gifted academically can make a child feel different from her peers and may even lead to the child being bullied and becoming depressed. Studies have shown that the more intellectually gifted a child is, the greater the risk of social difficulties and unhappiness. It's important to keep an eye on your child's self-esteem and work with her teacher and school counselor if she's really struggling. Negative talk about oneself and frequent mood swings can be signs of self-esteem problems.

Tip: Find a sport or hobby that helps your child build self-confidence, feel like a "regular" kid, and connect with her peers through play. Soccer, skateboarding, and hip-hop dance are a few ideas.

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